The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) is embarking on a significant nationwide initiative, the “Clean Note Campaign: Our Money, Our Pride,” to address the pervasive issue of currency mutilation plaguing the Liberian dollar. Scheduled for launch on September 19, 2025, at the Rally Time Market in Monrovia, the campaign aims to instill a sense of national pride and responsibility towards the proper handling and preservation of the nation’s currency. The campaign emerges as a direct response to the alarming rate at which Liberian banknotes are being damaged due to careless handling practices, including excessive folding, writing on notes, stamping, and exposure to dirt and moisture. These practices have already resulted in the damage of an estimated L$1 billion worth of the new banknotes introduced in 2022, representing a substantial financial burden on the nation’s resources for replacement.
The CBL’s Clean Note Campaign seeks to empower citizens to become active participants in preserving the value and integrity of the Liberian dollar. By fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the national currency, the campaign aims to rebuild confidence in the economy and promote responsible financial behavior among the population. The campaign’s message, “Our Money, Our Pride – Handle It with Care,” emphasizes the collective responsibility of all Liberians to treat their currency with respect and contribute to its longevity. The initiative also carries a legal dimension, with individuals found deliberately damaging currency facing potential penalties, including a fine of up to L$500,000 or imprisonment for up to two years. This measure underscores the seriousness of the issue and the CBL’s commitment to enforcing responsible currency management.
The Clean Note Campaign has garnered widespread support from key national stakeholders, reflecting a collective recognition of the importance of preserving the integrity of the Liberian dollar. Commercial banks, representing the core of the financial sector, have pledged their commitment to the campaign, along with vital players in the national economy such as the Liberian Marketing Association, the Liberia Business Association, and the National Association of Foreign Exchange Bureaus. This collaborative approach signifies a unified front in addressing the issue of currency mutilation and promoting responsible financial practices across various sectors of the Liberian economy.
CBL Executive Governor Henry Saamoi has emphasized the multifaceted nature of the campaign, highlighting its significance beyond the mere protection of physical banknotes. He underscores the campaign’s role in fostering national pride and economic stability. By promoting responsible currency handling, the initiative aims to strengthen public trust in the financial system and contribute to a more stable economic environment. The campaign’s launch, therefore, marks the commencement of a sustained nationwide effort to educate and engage the public on the importance of proper currency management.
The Clean Note Campaign represents a crucial step in addressing the challenge of currency mutilation and its associated economic costs. By fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the Liberian dollar, the campaign aims to transform public attitudes and behaviors towards currency handling. The widespread support from key stakeholders and the CBL’s commitment to sustained public engagement signal a strong determination to address this issue effectively. The success of the campaign hinges on the active participation of all Liberians in embracing the message of “Our Money, Our Pride – Handle It with Care” and incorporating responsible currency handling practices into their daily lives.
This initiative underscores the vital role of public awareness and education in achieving broader economic goals. By promoting responsible financial behavior, the campaign seeks to contribute to a more stable and resilient Liberian economy. The collaboration between the CBL, commercial banks, and various business associations creates a powerful platform for disseminating the campaign’s message and ensuring its widespread impact. The campaign’s emphasis on national pride and collective responsibility further strengthens its potential to effect lasting change in currency management practices across Liberia.
